Thunderstorms and dogs don't always go well together. It often means a frightened (babysitting) dog.... Is your dog also so afraid of thunderstorms and are you at your wit's end? Petbnb would like to give you some tips to calm your dog when the storm hits.
- Distract your dog
Thunder can be heard from afar and this is the ultimate opportunity to distract your dog. Start playing and training with him as the sound of thunder approaches. This way your dog will think of something else and learn that the sound of thunder is not scary.
2. Stay calm
The more scared you are of thunderstorms, the more frightened your four-legged friend becomes. If you notice your dog starting to shiver, bark or get restless, speak to him calmly. Give him loving attention and stay calm. Your dog will know that you can provide safety when thunderstorms occur.
3. Don't punish your dog
Punishing your dog during thunderstorms is counterproductive! It will only make him more anxious. This is because if you punish your dog during a thunderstorm, he will think of the punishment the next time it thunders! In this case, your dog is wrongly conditioned. So it is better to show him love when it thunders.
4. Practice with the sound of thunder
This is a good tip if your dog remains fearful of thunderstorms. Turn on soft thunder sounds and teach your dog that it is not scary by making him feel safe and by speaking to him calmly. Very important in this is to give your dog time to get used to the sound.
5. Another quiet dog in the same room
Dogs mirror other dogs. Another calm dog in the same room with your own dog can have a calming effect on him. Especially if the other dog doesn't care about the fireworks, this can have a great effect. For example, ask around you if anyone has a dog who is very relaxed when it thunders and lightning.
6. Use a thundershirt
Some dogs, unfortunately, remain very afraid of thunderstorms. If you have already tried all of the above steps, you are probably at your wit's end. A thundershirt is a vest that you can put on your dog. The vest provides a gentle constant pressure that is completely harmless. It is similar to a weight blanket for humans. It has a calming effect against anxiety and stress because the heaviness makes you feel safe.
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